# Paper-based IELTS is ending (2026): what changes, including in Nepal

> IELTS is moving to computer-only delivery from mid-2026. In Nepal, the last paper test was on 27 June 2026. What changes, what doesn't, and how to prepare for the computer test.
- **Author**: Testmigo
- **Published**: 2026-09-19
- **Category**: News
- **URL**: https://testmigo.com/blog/ielts-paper-test-ending

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## The short answer

IELTS is ending the paper-based test and moving to computer delivery from mid-2026, with dates that vary by country. In Nepal, IDP says IELTS on Paper is no longer offered after 27 June 2026, so new bookings are for IELTS on computer. Paper results you already have stay valid for the usual two years.

## What changes

- All IELTS tests are delivered on computer; exact timelines vary by market.
- In selected markets, a new "Writing on Paper" option lets you handwrite the Writing section.
- IELTS for UKVI, the version used for UK visas, is only available fully on computer.
- One Skill Retake is available for Writing on Paper, but must be taken in the same delivery mode as your original test.
- In Nepal, IELTS on computer results typically arrive within 1 to 5 days.

## What doesn't change

The test content, the four skills, the timings and the nine-band scale are the same on computer as on paper. The Speaking test is still a face-to-face interview with an examiner. Existing paper results remain valid until the end of the recommended two-year period.

## How to prepare for the computer test

The main difference is the screen: typing your essays, highlighting and making notes on screen, and keeping track of time without turning pages. Practise under those conditions before test day. Testmigo's [free IELTS mock](/ielts) runs on a computer-delivered layout with section timers, highlighting and notes, so nothing on the screen is new when you sit the real test.

## Common questions

### Is paper-based IELTS still available in Nepal?

No. IDP says IELTS on Paper is no longer offered in Nepal after 27 June 2026.

### Are my paper-based IELTS results still valid?

Yes. Existing paper results remain valid until the end of the recommended two-year period.

### Can I still handwrite my IELTS Writing?

Only in markets that offer the new Writing on Paper option. Check with your test centre.

### How fast are IELTS on computer results?

In Nepal, typically within 1 to 5 days after the test, according to IDP.

**Sources**
- [IELTS: Updates to IELTS test delivery, 5 March 2026 (checked 19 September 2026)](https://ielts.org/news-and-insights/updates-to-ielts-test-delivery)
- [IDP IELTS Nepal: Paper-based IELTS](https://ielts.idp.com/nepal/about/which-test-do-i-take/paper-based-ielts)

## Related guides

- [IELTS One Skill Retake (2026): the rules, and who should use it](https://testmigo.com/blog/ielts-one-skill-retake)
- [English test scores for UK visas (2026): IELTS for UKVI and PTE Academic UKVI](https://testmigo.com/blog/uk-visa-english-requirements)
- [IELTS Academic vs General Training: format, scoring and how to practise](https://testmigo.com/blog/ielts-academic-general-guide)

[Practise with a free IELTS mock](https://testmigo.com/ielts)
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